COUNSELLING IN BRIGHTON AND HOVE

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Writing About Hope (and Doubt) for Philosophy Now

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John Creigan

john creigan hope article in philosophy now
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"Could it be that hope, so often hailed as a blessing, contains negative consequences we rarely consider? Is it possible that hope sometimes hinders, rather than helps, human flourishing?"

  • John Creigan

I’m really pleased to share that an article I wrote has just been published in Philosophy Now magazine. It’s called “Hope: Blessing or Curse?” and explores the complicated relationship between hope and doubt – how they depend on each other, and how both can help (or hinder) us in making sense of life.

 

Writing it gave me a chance to put into words something I’ve felt for a long time, both in my own life and in my work as a counsellor – that hope isn’t always straightforward. It’s not just about feeling optimistic. Sometimes it’s about facing uncertainty, sitting with doubt, and still finding a reason to keep going.

 

The article touches on ancient ideas, modern dilemmas and the quiet, everyday ways we keep going in the face of not knowing. It’s not an academic piece – more a thoughtful reflection, shaped by the kind of conversations I often find myself in with clients, friends and within myself.

 

If you’re curious, the piece is in April’s Issue 167 of Philosophy Now. You can read it online [here] or find a printed copy if you fancy something offline.

 

Thanks for reading – and as ever, I’m interested in what these ideas stir up for others too. Hope can be complicated, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth holding on to.

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